I've been on OTC Lo (not generic) for almost three months, mainly for acne. I had a few headaches and was moody the first week, but I've adjusted well with no weight gain. I had a thyroid issue in 2007 that is now resolved, but it caused terrible acne.

I'm still breaking out during and right after my period, but I've noticed that my skin is the best during the dark blue pills right before my period. All active acne flattens out and I don't develop any new spots.

I can only conclude that the higher level of norgestimate is what's making my skin better! I just went to my GYN and asked to be bumped up to the OTC generic, but that only increases the ethinyl estradiol level to 0.035. Since both pills are triphasic, I will still get fluctuating norgestimate levels.

Should I ask to switch to Ortho-Cyclen so I can get an even dose of 0.250 norgestimate? Is there any benefit to having fluctuating norgestimate levels? The NP I see is very nice and will pretty much do whatever I ask for

I know this thread is a little old but I had this convo with my dr and she recommends sticking with monophasic pills in dealing with acne issues.

And from my own personal experience with being on both types of pills over the years....the triphasic pills were fine for my skin I never really had any issues just maybe a occasional little breakout. With monophasic pills my skin was actually more radiant with maybe a tiny breakout right before my period if even that.